Photo:
The Ford Pilot was one of the companies more popular models during the 1940′s
During the second world war between 1939 – 1945 the Ford Geelong production facilities were converted to wartime activities to manufacture landing barges, military vehicles, and ammunition materials. Brisbane (Rocklea) Plant was converted to recondition aero engines while the Sydney plant at Homebush built Bren Gun Carriers.
During World War II Ford Australia had one of the foremost shipbuilding operations in the country. Ford built 455 Australian Landing Craft in sizes ranging from 106′ long down to tiny 32 footers. There was even a tug boat built for the navy which was based on the ALC. These welded steel ships proved to be very reliable and stable and certainly played a tremendous role in the Pacific islands war theatre. And, of course, due to the fact that most of the male workforce was in uniform, they were mainly built by women.
Photo:
Wartime production at Geelong plant
1945 saw the end of World War II and the resumption of civilian vehicle production. Ford V8 sedan was launched by the then Prime Minister of Australia Ben Chifley in a glittering ceromony. The Fordson E27N Model tractor was also introduced that same year.
1946 Ford Freighter utility announced – forerunner of F-Series truck.
Photo:
the 48 Truck as seen on the advertising material
1949 All new Ford V8 sedan with independent front suspension known as the Ford Custom Single Spinner it was released in both sedan and utility. The vehicle remained in production until 1952 when it was superceded with the Custom Twin Spinner. The Ford Pilot V8 imported from England which was powered with a 3.6 litre V8 engine. The Prefect was another British designed vehicle also in the Ford Showrooms in ’49 it featured a 30 brake horse power 1172 cc engine and three speed gear box. While a new range of British Thames range of trucks were also released in 1949.
Photo:
New product launch in 1949
Photo:
The 1949 Ford Coupe brought new style to the end of a turbulent decade
